Bucillamine-induced Yellow Nail Syndrome with Chylothorax.

Abstract

Yellow nail syndrome (YNS), a rare condition characterized by thickened yellow nails, lymphedema, and respiratory manifestations, is rarely caused by bucillamine, an anti-rheumatic agent. Respiratory manifestations of YNS include chylothorax in 18.8-22% of patients with pleural effusion. We herein report the first case of bucillamine-induced YNS with chylothorax. Lymphangiography revealed narrowing of the lymphatic vessels and stagnation of the lymphatic fluid, suggesting impaired lymphatic drainage. The chylothorax persisted despite the discontinuation of bucillamine. The present case illustrates that bucillamine can cause irreversible lymphatic impairment and chylothorax.